Regulators have closed small lenders in Virginia and Pennsylvania, bringing U.S. bank failures this year to five after 24 closures in 2013.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said Friday that it has taken over Millennium Bank, N.A., based in Sterling, Va., and closed the single branch of Vantage Point Bank in Horsham, Pa.
Millennium Bank, which operated two branches, had $130.3 million in assets and $121.7 million in deposits as of Dec. 31. WashingtonFirst Bank, based in Reston, Va., has agreed to assume its deposits and buy its assets.
First Choice Bank, based in Mercerville, N.J., will assume Vantage Point Bank's $62.5 million in deposits and its $63.5 million in assets.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, March 01, 2014
Flashback: Candidate Mitt Romney ridiculed for ‘Cold War thinking’
Sarah Palin wasn’t the only one to foresee the events now unfolding in Ukraine. Quite a few remember the third presidential debate in October 2012, during which Mitt Romney was ridiculed for his “stuck in the 1980s” foreign policy.
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Obama Admin Announces 'Retroactive' Obamacare Subsidies
On Thursday, the Obama administration quietly announced it will allow consumers in states with busted Obamacare websites to retroactively bag taxpayer-funded insurance subsidies, even if they purchased health insurance outside the Obamacare marketplace.
The move by the Obama administration will help Democratic candidates facing voters irate over Obamacare by now retroactively cutting checks to citizens in states with broken Obamacare websites. As CBS News reports, "Those who stand to benefit the most are Democratic governors who plunged ahead and ran into problems" because "Republican governors basically defaulted to federal control of online sign-ups in their states."
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The move by the Obama administration will help Democratic candidates facing voters irate over Obamacare by now retroactively cutting checks to citizens in states with broken Obamacare websites. As CBS News reports, "Those who stand to benefit the most are Democratic governors who plunged ahead and ran into problems" because "Republican governors basically defaulted to federal control of online sign-ups in their states."
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Migration Of Personal Income
All maps and other graphics may be published and re-posted with credit to the Tax Foundation.
For Some, A Struggle To Avoid Homelessness
After moving from house to house and struggling to make ends meet, a mother of three came to West Ocean City for Diakonia’s transitional housing program in May 2012.
Nearly two years later, Shamika has two part-time jobs, is working toward a degree in criminal justice at Wor-Wic Community College and has just moved into her own apartment.
But standing on your own can be hard, especially during the offseason in Ocean City, she said.
“It’s definitely not easy living in a resort town. It’s not. It’s hard because you’re used to bringing home every two weeks $300 or $400 (in the summer), and now you bring home $78 or $61,” she said.
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Nearly two years later, Shamika has two part-time jobs, is working toward a degree in criminal justice at Wor-Wic Community College and has just moved into her own apartment.
But standing on your own can be hard, especially during the offseason in Ocean City, she said.
“It’s definitely not easy living in a resort town. It’s not. It’s hard because you’re used to bringing home every two weeks $300 or $400 (in the summer), and now you bring home $78 or $61,” she said.
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Outrage Over Half-Million-Dollar Salary Of Calif. School Superintendent Sparks Investigation
LAWNDALE, CALIF. (AP) – The revelation that the superintendent of a tiny Southern California school district earned more than President Barack Obama last year sparked calls Tuesday for his resignation, a criminal investigation and a recall of the school board.
An angry crowd showed up at a special meeting of the Centinela Valley Union High School District after a newspaper investigation revealed Superintendent Jose Fernandez's total compensation package. Many of the speakers called on Fernandez and the five board members to step down, KCAL-TV reported.
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An angry crowd showed up at a special meeting of the Centinela Valley Union High School District after a newspaper investigation revealed Superintendent Jose Fernandez's total compensation package. Many of the speakers called on Fernandez and the five board members to step down, KCAL-TV reported.
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A Letter To The Editor: Perdue, Pollution, And Corporate Welfare
Who is the biggest recipient of the public dollars being used to try and clean up after Perdue’s polluting behavior?
Perdue.
-- From "Maryland’s Manure Transport Program: Welfare at its Worst," by Scott Edwards, at this February 26, 2014 Food & Water Watchsite: http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/blogs/marylands-manure-transport-program-welfare-at-its-worst/#
Perdue.
-- From "Maryland’s Manure Transport Program: Welfare at its Worst," by Scott Edwards, at this February 26, 2014 Food & Water Watchsite: http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/blogs/marylands-manure-transport-program-welfare-at-its-worst/#
‘Shoe Rubber’ Chemical Removed From Subway Bread Found In Nearly 500 Common Foods
Footlong fans breathed a sigh of relief at the beginning of February, when sandwich chain Subway announced that it was removing azodicarbonamide — a chemical used in shoe rubber and yoga mats — from its bread.
Though the World Health Organization has said that the chemical is safe for human consumption, some studies have suggested it could be linked with asthma and skin and respiratory problems.
And when the chemical is baked, it forms another chemical that has been linked to cancer in animal studies, CBS News pointed out.
Read more
Though the World Health Organization has said that the chemical is safe for human consumption, some studies have suggested it could be linked with asthma and skin and respiratory problems.
And when the chemical is baked, it forms another chemical that has been linked to cancer in animal studies, CBS News pointed out.
Read more
Tall Ships Mean Dredging Channel
Ocean City will likely play host to even more tall ships this coming summer – if it can convince the Army Corps of Engineers to help dredge out the channel under the Route 50 Bridge to fit deeper-hulled vessels.
“I’m expecting to have a ship announce they’re coming for the summer in the next couple weeks – if we can get the dredging worked out,” city Special Events Director Frank Miller said this week.
In August, the resort welcomed El Galeon Andalucia – a fully-functional replica of a 16th-century galleon owned and operated by the Spanish non-profit Nao Victoria Foundation.
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“I’m expecting to have a ship announce they’re coming for the summer in the next couple weeks – if we can get the dredging worked out,” city Special Events Director Frank Miller said this week.
In August, the resort welcomed El Galeon Andalucia – a fully-functional replica of a 16th-century galleon owned and operated by the Spanish non-profit Nao Victoria Foundation.
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REP ED PASTOR RETIRES, ADDS TO GROWING LIST OF DEM RETIREES
Another longtime Democrat Congressman is retiring from the House of Representatives instead of facing another term out of power.
Arizona Democratic Representative Ed Pastor has been in Congress for 23 years but this will be his last term.
“After 23 years in Congress serving the people of Arizona, I have decided that I will not seek re-election this year. It has been a great honor and experience, but it is time for me to close this chapter of my life and start a new one,” Pastor announced in a Facebook post.
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Arizona Democratic Representative Ed Pastor has been in Congress for 23 years but this will be his last term.
“After 23 years in Congress serving the people of Arizona, I have decided that I will not seek re-election this year. It has been a great honor and experience, but it is time for me to close this chapter of my life and start a new one,” Pastor announced in a Facebook post.
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New Online Science Resource
Wicomico County schools are reviewing a new online resource for middle school science classrooms. The Discovery Education Science Techbook, from the Discovery Channel, is an online tool for both students and teachers. It includes traditional science lessons, online laboratory investigations and simulations, clips from Discovery’s rich catalog of science programming and much more. Science Supervisor, Brian Raygor, will be hosting a drop-in open house to allow interested parents and community members to view this resource and provide feedback. The open house will be held on Wednesday, March 5 from 3:30-6:30 in the Central Office Media Center. Any questions may be directed to Mr. Raygor at 410-677-4508 or 
Fireball Lights Up East Coast Skies
(CNN) -- A dazzling meteor lit up skies Thursday night in at least 10 states, from Ohio to Maryland and all the way down to South Carolina.
"It was a huge yellow burning tail streaking what seemed right over the city," one poster on the American Meteor Society's reporting page wrote from Virginia Beach, Virginia. "It was angled in a way that it looked like it was going to crash into the city."
Others on Twitter described the meteor, which appeared a little after 7 p.m., as white, blue or green.
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"It was a huge yellow burning tail streaking what seemed right over the city," one poster on the American Meteor Society's reporting page wrote from Virginia Beach, Virginia. "It was angled in a way that it looked like it was going to crash into the city."
Others on Twitter described the meteor, which appeared a little after 7 p.m., as white, blue or green.
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Researchers Were ‘Very Surprised’ to Discover Few Right-Wingers Sent Anti-Semitic Hate Mail, but Here’s Who Did
Monika Schwarz-Friesel, a linguistics professor at the Technical University of Berlin, and her team read 14,000 letters and emails addressed to the Israeli embassy in Berlin and to Germany’s Central Council of Jews, Haaretz reported.
The results were summarized in her book, “The Language of Hostility Towards Jews in the 21st Century,” which was published in German and is due out in English next year.
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Verizon Charges You For Not Making Long Distance Calls
Below is information directly from Verizon, yet they don't tell you the charge is close to $50.00 a month. A local resident informed me that they had found this charge on their bill recently and had no idea Verizon could do so. They recommended that our viewers check their more recent bills to see if you too have been charged the same.
Charges that contribute toward meeting the minimum include, but are not limited to: domestic 1+ and international long distance calls, Operator Assistance calls, and Domestic and International Monthly Recurring Charges. Federal taxes, state taxes, credits, Universal Service Fees, charges billed by other carriers, and other surcharges and taxes do not contribute towards satisfying the Minimum Monthly Charge requirement. Each billing month when the applicable charges are equal to or greater than the MMC, no shortfall charge is imposed. If the applicable charges are less than the MMC rate, the difference between the MMC rate and the applicable charges will be a separate charge shown on the bill as the Shortfall Charge. Source
And he still stands by it!
Testifying against bills that would legalize or decriminalize marijuana, the police chief for Annapolis, Md., cited a fake news story that reported 37 people died on the first day Colorado’s recreational marijuana law went into effect.
“The first day of legalization, that’s when Colorado experienced 37 deaths that day from overdose on marijuana,” Annapolis Police Chief Michael Pristoop said Tuesday at a committee hearing, according to the Capital Gazette. “I remember the first day it was decriminalized there were 37 deaths.”
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Testifying against bills that would legalize or decriminalize marijuana, the police chief for Annapolis, Md., cited a fake news story that reported 37 people died on the first day Colorado’s recreational marijuana law went into effect.
“The first day of legalization, that’s when Colorado experienced 37 deaths that day from overdose on marijuana,” Annapolis Police Chief Michael Pristoop said Tuesday at a committee hearing, according to the Capital Gazette. “I remember the first day it was decriminalized there were 37 deaths.”
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Gas Co. Customers Likely To Pay Higher Fees
Somewhat counter-intuitively, the Maryland Public Service Commission – which ostensibly protects customers from rate swings – will require that Chesapeake Utilities impose an additional fee on rate payers to justify continued infrastructure improvements in the resort.
These improvements were previously shouldered by the de-regulated Eastern Shore Gas Company, which Chesapeake purchased last year, and now operates as Sandpiper Energy.
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Bombshell: British Intelligence Advisor Barrister Michael Shrimpton; Obama Born In Kenya In 1960; CIA DNA Test
Shrimpton reported Obama's purported mom was not pregnant in 1961 and that Obama was born in Kenya in 1960. He said Kenya was under British intelligence files and that Obama's father ran guns for the Mau Mau. He then dropped a bombshell claiming the CIA did covert DNA testing on Obama at a fundraising dinner and the test came back with no match to the claimed grandparents. Shrimpton said Rudy Giuliani's people knew and sat on the intelligence and further stated he spoke with Hillary Clinton's people and that they were quite interested.
Quiznos Preparing To File Bankruptcy Protection
Sandwich chain Quiznos is preparing to file for bankruptcy-court protection within weeks as it contends with unhappy franchisees and a $570 million debt load, according to people with direct knowledge of the matter.
Quiznos has been negotiating with creditors for weeks on a restructuring plan that would streamline its trip through bankruptcy court, these people said, but a deal hasn't yet been reached.
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Quiznos has been negotiating with creditors for weeks on a restructuring plan that would streamline its trip through bankruptcy court, these people said, but a deal hasn't yet been reached.
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Prospect Passing On NFL To Be Navy SEAL?
Boston College receiver Alex Amidon is probably talented enough to make a living in the NFL.
He certainly would get at least a shot at pro football, if he so desired, after following his All-ACC first team junior season in 2012 with 1,024 yards and a third-team conference selection as a senior in 2013.
But as it turns out, Amidon may bypass a potential NFL future for something much more significant.
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He certainly would get at least a shot at pro football, if he so desired, after following his All-ACC first team junior season in 2012 with 1,024 yards and a third-team conference selection as a senior in 2013.
But as it turns out, Amidon may bypass a potential NFL future for something much more significant.
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Publishers Notes: This is not uncommon. Alton Grizzard was considered a "hero quarterback" for Navy who became very close friends with Terry Bradshaw. Alton chose to become a Navy Seal as well, instead of signing with the NFL. Let's see how this one plays out.
Greenpeace Co-Founder Tells U.S. Senate Earth’s Geologic History ‘Fundamentally Contradicts’ CO2 Climate Fears
‘We had both higher temps and an ice age at a time when CO2 emissions were 10 times higher than they are today’
Selected Highlights of Dr. Patrick Moore’s Feb. 25, 2014 testimony before the U.S. Senate Environment & Public Works Committee:
‘There is no scientific proof that human emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) are the dominant cause of the minor warming of the Earth’s atmosphere over the past 100 years.’
‘Today, we live in an unusually cold period in the history of life on earth and there is no reason to believe that a warmer climate would be anything but beneficial for humans and the majority of other species…It is “extremely likely” that a warmer temperature than today’s would be far better than a cooler one.’
Earth’s Geologic History Fails CO2 Fears: ‘The fact that we had both higher temperatures and an ice age at a time when CO2 emissions were 10 times higher than they are today fundamentally contradicts the certainty that human-caused CO2 emissions are the main cause of global warming…When modern life evolved over 500 million years ago, CO2 was more than 10 times higher than today, yet life flourished at this time. Then an Ice Age occurred 450 million years ago when CO2 was 10 times higher than today.’
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Selected Highlights of Dr. Patrick Moore’s Feb. 25, 2014 testimony before the U.S. Senate Environment & Public Works Committee:
‘There is no scientific proof that human emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) are the dominant cause of the minor warming of the Earth’s atmosphere over the past 100 years.’
‘Today, we live in an unusually cold period in the history of life on earth and there is no reason to believe that a warmer climate would be anything but beneficial for humans and the majority of other species…It is “extremely likely” that a warmer temperature than today’s would be far better than a cooler one.’
Earth’s Geologic History Fails CO2 Fears: ‘The fact that we had both higher temperatures and an ice age at a time when CO2 emissions were 10 times higher than they are today fundamentally contradicts the certainty that human-caused CO2 emissions are the main cause of global warming…When modern life evolved over 500 million years ago, CO2 was more than 10 times higher than today, yet life flourished at this time. Then an Ice Age occurred 450 million years ago when CO2 was 10 times higher than today.’
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BREAKING NEWS: Russian Parliament Grants President Vladimir Putin Permission To Mobilize The Country's Military
BREAKING NEWS: Russian parliament grants President Vladimir Putin permission to mobilize the country's military in Ukraine one day after President Obama said “there will be costs” if Russia intervenes militarily.
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A Salisbury Viewer Writes: Question About The Utility Tree Trimming
Residents Explode on Superintendent, School Board During Emergency Meeting: ‘This Is Crazy!’
“You should all step down and walk away from this! This is ridiculous! This is nuts, this is crazy! I give my wife everything! I do anything I can for my wife! I’m sleeping with her! Who are you sleeping with?” one man shouted during the meeting.
Jose Fernandez, who oversees the Centinela Valley Union High School District in Lawndale, Calif., reportedly earned $663,000 in 2013, according to KCAL-TV.
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Officers Of 76th Russian Shock Troops Division Operating In Ukraine
Everyone is curious who those unmarked men in unforms that have been seen in youtube clips from the Crimea are. Courtesy of Russian blogger Lev Shlosberg who writes for the newspaper Pskovskaya Guberniya, we now have an answer: according to him they are the officers of the 76th Chernihov (Pskov) Storm Troops Division and have slowly dispersed across key choke points in Ukraine.
From his post, translated by Interpretermag.com
According to one of the participants in the operation, officers and contractors of the 76th Shock Troops Division have been re-locating to Ukrainian territory since last week. By early this week, there were already more than 100 soldiers. The last of the famous detachments was sent on Thursday, 27 February. They are fully armed, with 5,000 rounds of ammunition per person. There is one truck per 10 soldiers, and they are completely loaded with weapons including flame-throwers. Upon arrival on the territory of Ukraine, they did not report their geographical locations to people, and they were assigned local tasks. Most likely, this was Sevastopol and Simferopol. Emergency troops remain in Yysk, and did not take part in the operation. The barracks of the 76th Storm Troops Division on Margelova Street in Pskov is practically empty.
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From his post, translated by Interpretermag.com
According to one of the participants in the operation, officers and contractors of the 76th Shock Troops Division have been re-locating to Ukrainian territory since last week. By early this week, there were already more than 100 soldiers. The last of the famous detachments was sent on Thursday, 27 February. They are fully armed, with 5,000 rounds of ammunition per person. There is one truck per 10 soldiers, and they are completely loaded with weapons including flame-throwers. Upon arrival on the territory of Ukraine, they did not report their geographical locations to people, and they were assigned local tasks. Most likely, this was Sevastopol and Simferopol. Emergency troops remain in Yysk, and did not take part in the operation. The barracks of the 76th Storm Troops Division on Margelova Street in Pskov is practically empty.
More
Black Christian Leaders Challenge Michigan Courts On Marriage Definition
Some in the GOP wish to turn their backs on Christian conservatives and say the Republican party should just stop talking about social issues. They seem to believe a collective mea culpa is the best way forward and that social conservatives are causing them to lose.
Message to the GOP establishment: you are totally wrong and maybe we should change the party initials to OTL (out to lunch). This is the problem with the GOP and all those “inside-the-beltway” consultants and pundits.
If the GOP would actually get out into America they’d understand policy inclusiveness, not just the emptiness of outreach. In the black community, social conservative issues are more unifying than fiscal issues. I’ve often said the most conservative people in America on a Sunday are black.
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Message to the GOP establishment: you are totally wrong and maybe we should change the party initials to OTL (out to lunch). This is the problem with the GOP and all those “inside-the-beltway” consultants and pundits.
If the GOP would actually get out into America they’d understand policy inclusiveness, not just the emptiness of outreach. In the black community, social conservative issues are more unifying than fiscal issues. I’ve often said the most conservative people in America on a Sunday are black.
More
Another Obama Record… More College-Educated Millineals Are Jobless & Living In Poverty Than Any 20th Century Generation At That Age
Another record!
More college-educated Millinials are jobless and living in poverty than any other 20th Century generation at that age.
Forbes reported:
It’s not all good news, though. The Pew found that the both the share of college-educated 25 – 32 year-olds unemployed and those living in poverty is greater than any other generation of the 20th century at the same age. And while salaries for college grads have grown by $7K over the last 40 years, median earnings for those 25 – 32 have been stagnant for decades, even as the cost of education has soared. Other data from the University of Waterloo actually shows Millennials underearning their parents at the same age.
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Legislation Aims To Slow Utility’s Smart Meter Initiative
At the conclusion of Tuesday afternoon’s Mayor and City Council work session, Ocean City AARP President Chris Norris announced a meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 12, starting promptly at 11 a.m. at the Ocean City Senior Center on 41st Street regarding smart meters. Representatives of Delmarva Power will be present to provide an overview of the smart meter project and address customers’ questions and concerns.
Last spring, Delmarva Power began installing smart meters, or digital meters, at many residential and business accounts in Maryland as part of a proactive initiative to streamline the billing process and provide consumers and the utility with a better understanding of energy usage. Delmarva Power is authorized by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) to install smart meters for all of its Maryland customers.
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BREAKING NEWS: Putin Asks For Permission To Use Military
Russian President Vladimir Putin asks parliament to approve use of the country’s military in Ukraine to protect ethnic Russians and a military base in Crimea.
More
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Pemberton Drive Closing
As part of Salisbury Public Works’ ongoing effort to keep the public informed of improvements within the City of Salisbury, please be advised that a private contractor will be closing the flow of thru traffic on Pemberton Drive from Parsons Road to Route 349 (Nanticoke Road) in order to perform tree work.
The work will be performed between the hours of 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM, on Saturday, March 1st barring unforeseen problems. Detour routes will be posted and provisions will be made for local traffic to access their property and businesses. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. Your patience and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
The work will be performed between the hours of 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM, on Saturday, March 1st barring unforeseen problems. Detour routes will be posted and provisions will be made for local traffic to access their property and businesses. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. Your patience and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
SFD Calls For Service 2-28-14
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 21:56:19Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 20:38:29Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 19:54:54Nature: Structure FireAddress: 706 East Rd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 19:54:52Nature: Structure FireAddress: 706 East Rd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 19:54:50Nature: Structure FireCity: Salisbury
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 19:14:09Nature: Unconscious SubjectCity: Salisbury
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 18:15:39Nature: StrokeCity: Salisbury
- Friday February, 28 2014 @ 16:09:55Nature: Pi AccidentAddress: S Division St and milford St Salisbury, MD 21802
Dog Found 3-1-14
Good News: Only 35 Of 50 State Exchange Websites Were Deemed “High Risk”
Or is that 35 out of 58 states? Does the 58th have an Exchange? Has Obama visited it yet?
(Fox News) Security experts worried that 35 state health exchange websites were vulnerable to hackers and were rated as “high risk” for security problems before ObamaCare’s launch, documents obtained by Fox News show.
Fears that the health law’s websites could put consumers at risk have plagued the program’s rollout from the beginning, but the administration told The Associated Press that the documents offer only a partial and “outdated” snapshot of an improving situation.
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(Fox News) Security experts worried that 35 state health exchange websites were vulnerable to hackers and were rated as “high risk” for security problems before ObamaCare’s launch, documents obtained by Fox News show.
Fears that the health law’s websites could put consumers at risk have plagued the program’s rollout from the beginning, but the administration told The Associated Press that the documents offer only a partial and “outdated” snapshot of an improving situation.
More
Paula Deen Will Open New $20 Million Restaurant This Summer In Tennessee
No, instead Deen is re-entering the food foray with a new Tennessee restaurant that has a pretty hefty operating budget, reportsCNNMoney, after snapping up about $75 to $100 million in funding from investors for her new company, Paula Deen Ventures.
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White House Panelist On NSA Says NSA May Enable A “Police State”
Richard Clarke is one of the four White House panelists on NSA spying, and the former top counter-terror czar in the Clinton and Bush administrations.
Clarke has previously said that mass surveillance isn’t needed to keep us safe. And see this.
As Tech Target reports:
Revelations about NSA monitoring activities over the last year show the potential for a police state mechanism, according to the former U.S. cybersecurity czar, but there is still time to avoid the dire consequences.
“[T]hey have created, with the growth of technologies, the potential for a police state.”
“Once you give up your rights, you can never get them back. Once you turn on that police state, you can never turn it off.”
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Clarke has previously said that mass surveillance isn’t needed to keep us safe. And see this.
As Tech Target reports:
Revelations about NSA monitoring activities over the last year show the potential for a police state mechanism, according to the former U.S. cybersecurity czar, but there is still time to avoid the dire consequences.
“[T]hey have created, with the growth of technologies, the potential for a police state.”
“Once you give up your rights, you can never get them back. Once you turn on that police state, you can never turn it off.”
More
A Value-Added Tax Would Help The Economy Grow
Americans desperately want a fairer tax system and relief from arbitrary treatment by the IRS. True reform requires simply junking the personal and corporate incomes in favor of a consumption tax.
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp, R-Mich., estimates tax filing, recordkeeping and the like amounts to $168 billion a year — a terrible waste exceeding 10 percent of the taxes collected. Much of the personal information revealed is a terrible invasion of privacy, and the constant fear the IRS will audit taxpayers for their political activities is outright tyranny.
The tax code is riddled with special interest provisions that favor rich donors to political campaigns, distort business decisions and consumer choices and handicap economic growth and jobs creation
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House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp, R-Mich., estimates tax filing, recordkeeping and the like amounts to $168 billion a year — a terrible waste exceeding 10 percent of the taxes collected. Much of the personal information revealed is a terrible invasion of privacy, and the constant fear the IRS will audit taxpayers for their political activities is outright tyranny.
The tax code is riddled with special interest provisions that favor rich donors to political campaigns, distort business decisions and consumer choices and handicap economic growth and jobs creation
More
Salisbury’s Biggest Discount Shopping Event
One Weekend Only – March 6-8, 2014
Salisbury, MD – Spring is in the air at the semi-annual Coastal Kids Consignment event which brings together hundreds of local families hoping to sell, shop and save on kids items and also support multiple charities by donating items at the end of the event. This year, financial and in-kind donations will be distributed to Life Crisis of Salisbury, MD; the March of Dimes of Salisbury, MD; the Eastern Shore Pregnancy Center of Salisbury, MD and several other Churches and local shelters.
Gearing up for summer fun and warm weather activities while finding quality brand and designer label kids and baby items can put a crunch on any family’s budget. Coastal Kids Consignment has brought together thousands of ways to get what you need at a fraction of the price. The one stop opportunity to find spring and summer season items at 60-90% off retail is a not to miss event!
Salisbury, MD – Spring is in the air at the semi-annual Coastal Kids Consignment event which brings together hundreds of local families hoping to sell, shop and save on kids items and also support multiple charities by donating items at the end of the event. This year, financial and in-kind donations will be distributed to Life Crisis of Salisbury, MD; the March of Dimes of Salisbury, MD; the Eastern Shore Pregnancy Center of Salisbury, MD and several other Churches and local shelters.
Gearing up for summer fun and warm weather activities while finding quality brand and designer label kids and baby items can put a crunch on any family’s budget. Coastal Kids Consignment has brought together thousands of ways to get what you need at a fraction of the price. The one stop opportunity to find spring and summer season items at 60-90% off retail is a not to miss event!
Joe Biden Puts Democrats On Notice: Don’t ‘Apologize For A Single Thing’
Vice President
Joseph R. Biden sent a clear message to fellow Democrats on Thursday about upcoming elections and campaigns: Whatever you do, don’t apologize.
“We should not apologize for a single thing,” Mr. Biden told members of the Association of State Democratic Chairs, NBC News reported. “We should go out and we should flatly lay out … ‘This is who we are. This is what we stand for. This is what we’re going to do.’ “
He said he doesn’t want to hear any talk about the degrading Democratic Party and the potential for members to lose big in the 2014 midterms. It’s the Republicans who should worry, he said, NBC reported.
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Joseph R. Biden sent a clear message to fellow Democrats on Thursday about upcoming elections and campaigns: Whatever you do, don’t apologize.“We should not apologize for a single thing,” Mr. Biden told members of the Association of State Democratic Chairs, NBC News reported. “We should go out and we should flatly lay out … ‘This is who we are. This is what we stand for. This is what we’re going to do.’ “
He said he doesn’t want to hear any talk about the degrading Democratic Party and the potential for members to lose big in the 2014 midterms. It’s the Republicans who should worry, he said, NBC reported.
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The World's Top Scientists: Take Action Now On Climate Change
Two of the world’s most prestigious science academies say there’s clear evidence that humans are causing the climate to change.
The time for talk is over, says the US National Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society, the national science academy of the UK.
The two released a paper, Climate Change: Evidence and Causes, written and reviewed by leading experts in both countries, lays out which aspects of climate change are well understood and where there is still uncertainty and a need for more research.
Sir Paul Nurse, President of the Royal Society, said:
“We have enough evidence to warrant action being taken on climate change; it is now time for the public debate to move forward to discuss what we can do to limit the impact on our lives and those of future generations.”
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The time for talk is over, says the US National Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society, the national science academy of the UK.
The two released a paper, Climate Change: Evidence and Causes, written and reviewed by leading experts in both countries, lays out which aspects of climate change are well understood and where there is still uncertainty and a need for more research.
Sir Paul Nurse, President of the Royal Society, said:
“We have enough evidence to warrant action being taken on climate change; it is now time for the public debate to move forward to discuss what we can do to limit the impact on our lives and those of future generations.”
More
In Fake Classes Scandal, UNC Fails Its Athletes, Whistle-Blower
Sitting in Memorial Hall at the heart of the Chapel Hill campus of the University of North Carolina, Mary Willingham wondered what William Friday would want her to do. Friday’s memorial service in October 2012 drew a large and reverent audience: scholars of the humanities and sciences, national political figures, and university staff members such as Willingham, who’d spent the previous decade tutoring athletes and other undergraduates in need of remedial reading help. The tribute to Friday, president of the state university system from 1956 to 1986, reflected the accomplishments and contradictions of the institution he embodied. Slaves helped build UNC, the nation’s first public university, which opened in 1795. The original Memorial Hall, dedicated in 1885, honored students and faculty who’d died defending the Confederacy. Taking office only two years after the Supreme Court ordered an end to “separate but equal” in Brown v. Board of Education, Friday pushed for desegregation in the face of sometimes-violent opposition. Under his stewardship, Chapel Hill earned a reputation for excellence and became a powerhouse in the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
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Farrakhan Calls For Separate Judicial Systems For Whites And Blacks
They say there is one justice for whites and another for blacks. When you consider the likelihood that Obama would have been impeached by now if he were not our Historic First Black President, you almost have to agree. Louis Farrakhan — who has confirmed Barbara Walters’s faltering belief that Obama is the Messiah — wants to make the separate justice official:
“We want equal justice under the law,” Farrakhan said on the last day of the Nation of Islam’s annual convention, held in Detroit this year. “Our people can’t take much more. We have to have our own courts. You failed us.” …
Farrakhan suggested that African Americans rely on the Quran and Bible to help set up their own legal system that would be more fair to African Americans.
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“We want equal justice under the law,” Farrakhan said on the last day of the Nation of Islam’s annual convention, held in Detroit this year. “Our people can’t take much more. We have to have our own courts. You failed us.” …
Farrakhan suggested that African Americans rely on the Quran and Bible to help set up their own legal system that would be more fair to African Americans.
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Friday, February 28, 2014
I TOLD YOU DELEGATE RUDY CANE WOULD BACK OUT AT THE LAST MINUTE!
That is what I said back on January 19th and now Rudy Cane has in fact dropped out of the race after all, just as I had predicted.
So now Liberals are into political trickery. This move was simply to assure no other Democrat would file against Mrs. Houghes.
Now let's see if the Republican Central Committee will do their job and find someone to run against Sharee.
DSP Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigates Fatal Crash in Seaford
DSP News Release: DSP Collision Reconstruction Unit Investigates Fatal Crash in Seaford
Location: Ross Station Road south of Herring Run Road, Seaford, DE
Date of Occurrence: Friday February 28, 2014 at approximately 5:10 p.m.
Operator and Vehicle Information:
- Operator #1: Herbert F. Cummings, 83, Seaford, DE
- Vehicle #1: 2006 GMC Sierra
- Operator #2: John M. Russell Jr., 81, Bridgeville, DE
- Vehicle #2: 1999 Oldsmobile 88
Reid Hammered By GOP After Claiming All ObamaCare 'Horror Stories' Untrue
Reid tried to clarify his remarks late Wednesday by saying he was only referring to the “vast majority” of stories featured in ads funded by Americans for Prosperity, a conservative group, and not the complaints of everyday Americans. However, he added fuel to the fire by continuing to slam the group’s backers, the Koch brothers, calling them “un-American.”
Americans for Prosperity President Tim Phillips, in response, said Reid had effectively "attacked the character and integrity of every American who had the courage to share how they're being hurt by the president's health care law."
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Christine O’Donnell: I Was A Victim Of The IRS
On March 9, 2010, around 10 a.m., I announced my plans to run for senate representing Delaware.
Later that same day, my office received a call from a reporter asking about my taxes.
It’s since come out, after a halting and unenthusiastic investigation, that a Delaware Department of Revenue employee named David Smith accessed my records that day at approximately 2 p.m. — out of curiosity, he says.
That these records ended up in the hands of the press is just a coincidence, the IRS claims.
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Federal Audit Calls New School Lunch Rules A Failure
One school district told federal investigators that it had to add unhealthy pudding and potato chips to its menu to meet the government’s minimum calorie requirements. Other school districts removed peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from their elementary school menus.
Five of the eight school districts surveyed by the Government Accountability Office, the official watchdog for Congress, said they believed students were going hungry because of smaller entree portions demanded by the rules.
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More Positive Effects Of Medicinal Marijuana
There may be even more important health benefits behind those Munchies. It's widely known that Marijuana use is medically proven to help with symptoms of glaucoma, chronic pain and cancer. But now, there's some new evidence to suggest that cannibas may also protect critical immune tissue damaged by HIV.
Scientists from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center have discovered that "chronic intake of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, can protect critical immune tissue in the gut from the damaging effects of HIV infection."
According to the researchers, gut-associated lymphoid tissue is an important target for HIV. The presence of cannabinoid receptors showed potential for changing the gastrointestinal responses to infection, which could prove to be a defense from HIV.
These promising results could provide insight for further studies that focus on the positive effects of medicinal marijuana, especially for cases of HIV.
Struggling Tea Party Movement Throws 5-Year Birthday Party, Counts Achievements
Members of Congress and activists who turned out for the Tea Party Patriots‘ fifth anniversary celebration, held at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill, said they are still a major faction in Congress and hope to add to their limited-government faction in November.
“I am a little bit confused, I could have sworn I read in The New York Times that the tea party was dead,” said Sen. Ted Cruz, a Texas Republican who won his seat in 2012 on a tea party-backed platform and who urged his followers not to get demoralized by the exploding size of government under President Obama. “I am hopeful. I am optimistic. I am filled with the promise that we are going to turn this country around because there is a grass-roots revolution going on.”
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RadCast.org Update
According to RadCast.org, there are major issues at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Energy Department officials continue to claim that the leak poses no threat to human health, but some scientists disagree.
Russell Hardy, the director of the Carlsbad Environmental Monitoring and Research Center, said that the levels of americium and plutonium were the highest ever recorded at that site.
Dan Hancock, the director of the Nuclear Waste Safety Program in Albuquerque, posed the questions, "Does anybody really know what happened in the underground [site] and how much [radiation] was released or is continuing to be released? And therefore, how much is being captured by the filters and how much is getting into the environment?"
In addition, one of RadCast's contributors reported levels spiking to 108 counts per minute yesterday, despite being 200 miles down-wind of that plant. It appears this leak may be more serious than officials are letting on, and RadCast will continue monitoring this situation closely. You can find more information and all the latest updates on the Carlsbad leak at RadCast.org.
Delegate Argues For 6-month Foreclosure Freeze
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Two of the Maryland House's more liberal Democrats are pushing for new protections against foreclosures: a six-month freeze on foreclosures and a ban on deficiency judgments.
Aisha Braveboy, a Prince George's County delegate running for attorney general, testified for the moratorium bill Thursday before the House Environmental Matters Committee. She said it could save homeowners struggling through bureaucratic delays with banks, such as lost paperwork.
Heather Mizeur, who is running for governor from Montgomery County, argued for banning deficiency judgments. Judges sometimes impose these on homeowners who default on their mortgages when the sale of their homes doesn't cover what they owe.
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Aisha Braveboy, a Prince George's County delegate running for attorney general, testified for the moratorium bill Thursday before the House Environmental Matters Committee. She said it could save homeowners struggling through bureaucratic delays with banks, such as lost paperwork.
Heather Mizeur, who is running for governor from Montgomery County, argued for banning deficiency judgments. Judges sometimes impose these on homeowners who default on their mortgages when the sale of their homes doesn't cover what they owe.
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Report: Health Exchange Glitch Could Cost $30.5M
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- A state report says a mistake with Maryland's defective health care exchange could cost the state $30.5 million.
The report made public Thursday by the Maryland Department of Legislative Services says the problem relates to Medicaid enrollees in the exchange. The report says the system is currently incapable of handling determinations of whether people remain eligible for Medicaid.
The report is citing "a variety of system architectural flaws" with software in the health exchange. In effect, the state can't determine who is no longer eligible for Medicaid, so the state has agreed with the federal government to a six-month delay in determining eligibility.
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The report made public Thursday by the Maryland Department of Legislative Services says the problem relates to Medicaid enrollees in the exchange. The report says the system is currently incapable of handling determinations of whether people remain eligible for Medicaid.
The report is citing "a variety of system architectural flaws" with software in the health exchange. In effect, the state can't determine who is no longer eligible for Medicaid, so the state has agreed with the federal government to a six-month delay in determining eligibility.
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GIRL SCOUTS CEO 'MISLEADING AND DECEITFUL,' SAY ANGRY MOMS
The moms are responding to a YouTube video released by Anna Marie Chavez last week that was intended to quell a growing protest movement coming during the crucial annual cookie-buying season.
In her video, Chavez bluntly states the Girl Scouts stand committed to “serving God.”
The moms' video claims this assertion is only made “when it is convenient” and points out that duty to God in the Girl Scouts “is optional.”
Chavez claims the Girl Scouts “have not now [nor] ever have had a relationship with Planned Parenthood.”
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Princess Anne Police Department Press Release
On 2-18-14, the Princess Anne Police Department arrested Porsha Simone Harvey, 21, of Newark Delaware, for possession of a controlled dangerous substance. The arrest stemmed from Harvey having the controlled dangerous substance on her person when she entered the District Court security scanners. Harvey was released from custody upon signing her criminal citation.
Porsha Harvey was known as Miss UMES Campus Queen. She has retired from the position effective immediately.
The Single Most Important Item For Investors In The Capital Markets
The single most important item for investors to understand is collateral. Specifically, how there is a huge shortage of high-grade collateral backstopping the trillions in derivatives trades owned by the TBTFs
The senior most assets backstopping the $600 trillion derivatives market are SOVEREIGN BONDS: US Treasuries, Japanese Government Bonds, German Bunds.
By keeping interest rates near zero, and pumping over $10 trillion into the financial system since 2007, the world’s Central Banks have forced investors to misprice the most prized collateral backstopping the entire derivatives system: SOVEREIGN BONDS.
SO what happens when the current bond bubble bursts and we begin to see bonds falling and yields rising?
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The senior most assets backstopping the $600 trillion derivatives market are SOVEREIGN BONDS: US Treasuries, Japanese Government Bonds, German Bunds.
By keeping interest rates near zero, and pumping over $10 trillion into the financial system since 2007, the world’s Central Banks have forced investors to misprice the most prized collateral backstopping the entire derivatives system: SOVEREIGN BONDS.
SO what happens when the current bond bubble bursts and we begin to see bonds falling and yields rising?
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Kindergarten Teacher Suspended After Two Of Her Students, Aged Five, Are Caught 'Having Sex' In School Bathroom
A kindergarten teacher has been suspended from her job after two of her students were found ‘having sex’ while naked in her classroom's bathroom.
Kelly Mascio, who has been teaching for more than 15 years in Mullica Township, New Jersey, has been suspended with pay since the incident on September 30.
According to a police report, Mascio found the two five-year-olds - a boy and girl – naked in her in-classroom bathroom. They told her they were ‘having sex.’
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Kelly Mascio, who has been teaching for more than 15 years in Mullica Township, New Jersey, has been suspended with pay since the incident on September 30.
According to a police report, Mascio found the two five-year-olds - a boy and girl – naked in her in-classroom bathroom. They told her they were ‘having sex.’
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“REVENGE PORN BILL PASSES HOUSE OF DELEGATES”
HB 43 makes it a misdemeanor for a person to disclose sexual images of another person without the consent of that person. However, this bill does not address the extortion issues that Delegate McDermott sought to address in HB 204.
Delegate McDermott’s “Revenge Porn” bill made it illegal for any individual to hold a person’s sexual image against them in return for goods or services, accounting for the emotional damage upon the extorted person. Not only would HB 204 protect individuals from their past sexual images getting released to the public, but it would also work to prevent anyone from using a person’s images against them.
SEX OFFENDER CONVICTED AFTER TWO DAY TRIAL
TROY R. ALLEN CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ABUSE OF A MINOR
On February 28, 2014, after a two day jury trial, Troy Robert Allen, age 23, of Wicomico County, Maryland, was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, two counts of Third Degree Sexual Offense, one count of Fourth Degree Sexual Offense, and three counts of Second Degree Assault. The State expects sentencing to be held in approximately sixty (60) days. The Defendant faces a maximum penalty of forty-six (46) years in prison for his crimes and lifetime registration on the Maryland Sex Offender Registry.
Wicomico County State’s Attorney Matthew A. Maciarello commended the Wicomico Child Advocacy Center (CAC) and its partners (Maryland State Police, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury Police Department, Department of Social Services and Life Crisis Center). Mr. Maciarello also thanked Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Illuminati and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes who prosecuted this case.
On February 28, 2014, after a two day jury trial, Troy Robert Allen, age 23, of Wicomico County, Maryland, was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, two counts of Third Degree Sexual Offense, one count of Fourth Degree Sexual Offense, and three counts of Second Degree Assault. The State expects sentencing to be held in approximately sixty (60) days. The Defendant faces a maximum penalty of forty-six (46) years in prison for his crimes and lifetime registration on the Maryland Sex Offender Registry.
Wicomico County State’s Attorney Matthew A. Maciarello commended the Wicomico Child Advocacy Center (CAC) and its partners (Maryland State Police, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury Police Department, Department of Social Services and Life Crisis Center). Mr. Maciarello also thanked Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Illuminati and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes who prosecuted this case.
$500K In Safety Upgrades Coming To The Bay Bridge In Time For Summer
Christie Ileto has more on the changes you’ll notice starting this summer.
Tragedy strikes in 2008. The driver of a tractor trailer dies while trying to avoid a head-on collision when another crosses into his lane.
Last March, a truck nearly overturns while crossing during a wind storm. The driver is fined.
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MSP Press Release 2-28-14
Maryland State Police Press Release
02/28/2014 10:34
02/28/2014 10:34
STATE POLICE MOURN PASSING OF FORMER SUPERINTENDENT
(PIKESVILLE, MD) – On behalf of the entire Maryland State Police family, Colonel Marcus L. Brown regrets to announce the passing of a former State Police Superintendent and federal law enforcement executive.
Colonel George B. Brosan, of Annapolis, Md., died last evening after a valiant battle with a lengthy illness. He served as Maryland State Police Superintendent from November 1, 1985 to April 22, 1987.
“Colonel Brosan led the members of the Maryland State Police by example and served the people of our state with a diligent commitment to excellence,” Colonel Brown said. “He recognized the important statewide public safety role of the Maryland State Police and worked throughout his tenure to enhance the effectiveness of the law enforcement services our troopers and civilian employees provided to our citizens.”
Governor Harry Hughes appointed Colonel Brosan to the position of Maryland State Police Superintendent. His appointment came following the retirement of the previous Superintendent, Colonel Wilbert T. Travers, Jr.
Prior to his appointment as Superintendent, Colonel Brosan had served in law enforcement for 26 years. He was a member of the New York Police Department from 1959 until 1962, when he became a special agent for the U.S. Customs Service. In 1973, he joined the Drug Enforcement Administration. He served as Special Agent In Charge of the Baltimore office from 1977 to 1984, before being appointed Deputy Assistant Administrator of the DEA.
Berlin To Use ‘Coolest Town’ Title For Publicity Push
BERLIN — With a new title to boast about, the historic hamlet of Berlin is now looking to leverage the national recognition into a huge year for tourism and growth.
“I do believe it’ll make for a heck of a great year for Berlin,” said Lisa Challenger, director of Tourism for Worcester County.
It was all toasts and victory songs this week as Berlin celebrated coming in first in the hard fought contest. Already the town is working to incorporate Budget Travel’s America’s Coolest Small Town designation into official advertising, such as a new billboard along Route 50.
“It’s already today even huge from publicity. I couldn’t even begin to put a dollar amount on the publicity that we’ve already generated,” said Michael Day, director of Economic and Community Development for Berlin.
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“I do believe it’ll make for a heck of a great year for Berlin,” said Lisa Challenger, director of Tourism for Worcester County.
It was all toasts and victory songs this week as Berlin celebrated coming in first in the hard fought contest. Already the town is working to incorporate Budget Travel’s America’s Coolest Small Town designation into official advertising, such as a new billboard along Route 50.
“It’s already today even huge from publicity. I couldn’t even begin to put a dollar amount on the publicity that we’ve already generated,” said Michael Day, director of Economic and Community Development for Berlin.
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Clean Teeth Can Hold Off Arthritis
Scientists discover link between gum disease bacteria and early onset of the condition
Brushing your teeth well could help prevent arthritis, scientists claim.
Researchers found a link between the bacterium responsible for gum disease and earlier onset of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as faster progression and greater severity of the condition.
The bacterium produces an enzyme which reacts with the residue of certain proteins.
The body recognises these proteins as intruders, leading to an immune attack, the researchers from the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky said.
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Brushing your teeth well could help prevent arthritis, scientists claim.
Researchers found a link between the bacterium responsible for gum disease and earlier onset of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as faster progression and greater severity of the condition.
The bacterium produces an enzyme which reacts with the residue of certain proteins.
The body recognises these proteins as intruders, leading to an immune attack, the researchers from the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky said.
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Higher Pay Sought For Caregivers Of Disabled
Thursday, these advocates came out to support legislation by Senate Finance Chairman Thomas Mac Middleton, D-Charles, that would guarantee those providers higher pay. His committee is also handling the bills to raise the statewide minimum wage.
Middleton’s bill, SB 890, dictates that caregivers of individuals with developmental and physical disabilities, as well as community mental health service providers, be paid an hourly rate 50% higher than state’s minimum wage.
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Fla. Gov. Scott: Obama Raiding Medicare To Fund ACA
Citing proposed cuts in Medicare Advantage plans, Florida Gov. Rick Scott says the Obama administration is raiding Medicare to pay for Obamacare.
Scott was in Washington over the weekend for a National Governors Association meeting and met with President Barack Obama. In a press release Monday, Scott said he had asked Obama "to fix Obamacare immediately."
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Scott was in Washington over the weekend for a National Governors Association meeting and met with President Barack Obama. In a press release Monday, Scott said he had asked Obama "to fix Obamacare immediately."
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More State Signs Will Better Direct Tourists, Says SHA
Steve Hollie and Nataliya Schroaeder, from the State Highway Administration, gave a PowerPoint presentation on the TAC, or Tourism Area and Corridor, sign program.
The new signs replace several older programs, which concentrated on freeway signs to gas, lodging and “attractions.”
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Reining In The IRS
The House GOP unveils its plan.
A comprehensive tax-reform plan House Republicans will unveil this morning takes dead aim at what Republicans perceive to be the IRS’s persistent abuse of its authority. According to Republican aides familiar with the plan, it will curb the power of the nation’s tax-collecting agency, something Republicans have attempted to do since the agency admitted to improperly singling out conservative non-profit groups last May.
The legislation, authored by Ways and Means Committee chairman Dave Camp (R., Mich.), introduces reforms that directly address the circumstances that led to last year’s scandal. The specter of Lois Lerner looms large in the minds of many Republicans, and the plan mandates the termination of any IRS employee found to have taken official action for political purposes. The 1988 bill that restructured and reformed the IRS spells out ten actions for which the IRS commissioner must terminate an agency employee after an “administrative or judicial determination” that the employee has committed the prohibited action — among them, providing a false statement under oath on a matter involving a taxpayer and violating the rights of a taxpayer. Today’s bill would add the commission of politically motivated acts to the list.
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A comprehensive tax-reform plan House Republicans will unveil this morning takes dead aim at what Republicans perceive to be the IRS’s persistent abuse of its authority. According to Republican aides familiar with the plan, it will curb the power of the nation’s tax-collecting agency, something Republicans have attempted to do since the agency admitted to improperly singling out conservative non-profit groups last May.
The legislation, authored by Ways and Means Committee chairman Dave Camp (R., Mich.), introduces reforms that directly address the circumstances that led to last year’s scandal. The specter of Lois Lerner looms large in the minds of many Republicans, and the plan mandates the termination of any IRS employee found to have taken official action for political purposes. The 1988 bill that restructured and reformed the IRS spells out ten actions for which the IRS commissioner must terminate an agency employee after an “administrative or judicial determination” that the employee has committed the prohibited action — among them, providing a false statement under oath on a matter involving a taxpayer and violating the rights of a taxpayer. Today’s bill would add the commission of politically motivated acts to the list.
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Lawyer: Teacher Films Autistic Boy In Distress, Shares Video "For Laughs"
GOODRICH, Mich. - An elementary school teacher is on paid leave from her school in Goodrich, Michigan over an incident involving a 10-year-old autistic student.
CBS Detroit reports that Oaktree Elementary teacher Nicole McVey allegedly shot a cellphone video of the 5th grade child after he got his head stuck in a chair.
McVey can be heard on the video seemingly taunting the student in a classroom full of kids.
"Do you wanna get tasered?" she asked.
Family attorney Patrick Greenfelder said McVey played the video at least three times for her class on a large-screen television.
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Mortgage Applications Plunge Most In 3 Months; "Purchases" Collapse To 19 Year Lows
Despite the surge in "seasonally-adjusted new home sales", un-seasonally-adjusted mortgage applications tumbled 8.5% this week, the biggest drop in 3 months as the modest January bounce has been almost entirely unwound. This pushes the broad MBA mortgage applications index down to near its lowest in 14 years. However, the home-purchase index continues to collapse. Purchase applications are down 30% from their May highs plunging in the last few weeks to their lowest level since 1995. Must be the weather, eh? Or is it like Bob Shiller warned yesterday, the unwind of "bubble thinking," especially as "gains are slowing from month-to-month and the strongest part of the recovery in home values may be over."
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Trey Gowdy: I Get Tougher Questions At A Bojangles Drive-Thru Than NBC Asked Of Susan Rice
National Security Advisor Susan Rice’s continued narrative about what the Obama administration knew of the Benghazi attack may turn around to bite her in the posterior, according to U.S. Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C.
There’s “not a scintilla of evidence” to support the notion that the best evidence the White House had on the Sunday following the attack was the it was the result of a “spontaneous demonstration,” he told Fox News host Greta Van Susteren. That was the story presented by Rice, who was then-Ambassador to the U.N. when she appeared on five Sunday talk shows.
“She was fabulously wrong when she said it the first time,” he said. “And stunningly arrogant in her refusal to express any regret for lying to our fellow citizens.”
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There’s “not a scintilla of evidence” to support the notion that the best evidence the White House had on the Sunday following the attack was the it was the result of a “spontaneous demonstration,” he told Fox News host Greta Van Susteren. That was the story presented by Rice, who was then-Ambassador to the U.N. when she appeared on five Sunday talk shows.
“She was fabulously wrong when she said it the first time,” he said. “And stunningly arrogant in her refusal to express any regret for lying to our fellow citizens.”
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Rand Paul: Dems Ought To Be 'Embarrassed' To Be Seen With Bill Clinton
Sen. Rand Paul is keeping up his assault on President Clinton, saying Tuesday that Mr. Clinton is a bad role model for women’s rights and that Democratic candidates ought to be “a little embarrassed” to be seen with him.
“I think the Democrats mistake Bill Clinton’s popularity,” Mr. Paul told Fox News’ Sean Hannity. “We have a lot of conservative Democrats in our state who go to church each week and really don’t approve of his behavior — what he’s done with women, with sexual harassment in the workplace.”
The comments came after Mr. Clinton made a campaign stop for Democrat Alison Lundergan Grimes, who is running for U.S. Senate in Kentucky against GOP Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Though Mr. Paul said if he were Mrs. Grimes, he’d return any money given by Mr. Clinton, the former president’s behavior per se isn’t so much an issue.
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“I think the Democrats mistake Bill Clinton’s popularity,” Mr. Paul told Fox News’ Sean Hannity. “We have a lot of conservative Democrats in our state who go to church each week and really don’t approve of his behavior — what he’s done with women, with sexual harassment in the workplace.”
The comments came after Mr. Clinton made a campaign stop for Democrat Alison Lundergan Grimes, who is running for U.S. Senate in Kentucky against GOP Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Though Mr. Paul said if he were Mrs. Grimes, he’d return any money given by Mr. Clinton, the former president’s behavior per se isn’t so much an issue.
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State Board Gives Local Election Officials 12% Pay Raise
In a 4-0 vote, the board voted to make the raises effective March 1, instead of being retroactive to July 2013, which State Election Administrator Linda Lamone originally requested. Local election officials have not received a pay raise in 14 years.
The current pay ranges from a low of $41,000 in Dorchester County to a high of $138,000 in Montgomery County.
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Rand Paul: Obama’s Surgeon General Pick Will Use Position To Attack Second Amendment
Sen. Rand Paul, Kentucky Republican, is objecting to President Obama’s nominee to be the next Surgeon General of the United States because of what he says is a history of political advocacy and push for gun controls.
In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Nevada Democrat, Mr. Paul writes that he has “serious concerns” about Dr. Vivek Murphy’s ability to “impartially serve as ‘the Nation’s Doctor.’ “
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In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Nevada Democrat, Mr. Paul writes that he has “serious concerns” about Dr. Vivek Murphy’s ability to “impartially serve as ‘the Nation’s Doctor.’ “
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Black Pastor: Obama ‘Has Done More To Hurt The American People Than Any Other President’
(CNSNews.com) – During a press conference on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., to announce a signature campaign to impeach U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Rev. Bill Owens said President Barack Obama has “hurt the American people.” “We’re on a downward road,” Owens, who is founder and president of the Coalition of African American Pastors (CAAP), said at the event at the National Press Club. “And this president has done more to hurt the American people than any president, as I see it, in my lifetime and in history.”
Owens cited Holder’s “repeated lawlessness” of disregarding state laws and the Constitution.
“What we have in Attorney General Holder is a man so political in his zeal to redefine marriage that he is willing to run roughshod over the rulings of the Supreme Court, binging federal law, and the United States Constitution along with the constitutions of a majority of states,” Owens said in a statement distributed at the press conference.
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Owens cited Holder’s “repeated lawlessness” of disregarding state laws and the Constitution.
“What we have in Attorney General Holder is a man so political in his zeal to redefine marriage that he is willing to run roughshod over the rulings of the Supreme Court, binging federal law, and the United States Constitution along with the constitutions of a majority of states,” Owens said in a statement distributed at the press conference.
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California College Student Teaches School $50,000 Lesson On Constitution
A California college student who was blocked last year from handing out copies of the Constitution gave his school a lesson in civics and the law, winning a $50,000 settlement and an agreement to revise its speech codes.
Robert Van Tuinen, 26, settled with Modesto Junior College just five months after his run-in with school officials on Sept. 17 – National Constitution Day. Van Tuinen said he’s more excited about getting the school to revise its speech codes, which previously confined the First Amendment to a small area students had to sign up to use.
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Robert Van Tuinen, 26, settled with Modesto Junior College just five months after his run-in with school officials on Sept. 17 – National Constitution Day. Van Tuinen said he’s more excited about getting the school to revise its speech codes, which previously confined the First Amendment to a small area students had to sign up to use.
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Judge Deals Blow To Ohio Village's Use Of Speeding Traffic Cameras
HAMILTON, Ohio – A judge Tuesday ordered a southwest Ohio village to stop using speeding cameras and said they're being used to violate motorists' rights to due process, in the latest ruling against automatic traffic enforcement around the state.
Butler County Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Sage also approved class action status, meaning thousands of drivers potentially could seek refunds from the village of New Miami.
It was estimated in court Tuesday that more than $1 million has been collected from more than 10,000 drivers, although some may have been ticketed multiple times. An attorney for the village said an appeal was likely. The village had contended it had the right under state law to use the cameras to ticket motorists, with a compelling interest for safety.
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Butler County Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Sage also approved class action status, meaning thousands of drivers potentially could seek refunds from the village of New Miami.
It was estimated in court Tuesday that more than $1 million has been collected from more than 10,000 drivers, although some may have been ticketed multiple times. An attorney for the village said an appeal was likely. The village had contended it had the right under state law to use the cameras to ticket motorists, with a compelling interest for safety.
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Have You Ever Seen A Press Release From Governor O'Malley Announcing A Business Coming To Or Expanding In Wicomico County?
STATE, HARFORD COUNTY OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE SPECIALTY TIN MANUFACTURER PLANS UPGRADE OF HEADQUARTERS
BALTIMORE, MD (February 20, 2014) – Governor Martin O’Malley joined today with Harford County Economic Development to announce that the State has approved a $535,000 conditional loan to the Independent Can Company in Belcamp. The loan comes from the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development’s Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF) to assist the company with facility upgrades and new equipment for its headquarters and manufacturing plant. As part of the upgrade, the company plans to add an additional 25 employees by December 2018, and retain its existing workforce of 221 employees.
“By working with our partners in Harford County as well the leadership of Independent Can, we are preserving 221 jobs, creating 25 new jobs and ensuring that this company will continue to grow and invest in Maryland,” said Governor O’Malley. “Our most important priority continues to be creating and retaining the kinds of highly-skilled jobs that will help sustain Maryland’s economy for today and for decades to come.”
BALTIMORE, MD (February 20, 2014) – Governor Martin O’Malley joined today with Harford County Economic Development to announce that the State has approved a $535,000 conditional loan to the Independent Can Company in Belcamp. The loan comes from the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development’s Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF) to assist the company with facility upgrades and new equipment for its headquarters and manufacturing plant. As part of the upgrade, the company plans to add an additional 25 employees by December 2018, and retain its existing workforce of 221 employees.
“By working with our partners in Harford County as well the leadership of Independent Can, we are preserving 221 jobs, creating 25 new jobs and ensuring that this company will continue to grow and invest in Maryland,” said Governor O’Malley. “Our most important priority continues to be creating and retaining the kinds of highly-skilled jobs that will help sustain Maryland’s economy for today and for decades to come.”
States Fear 'Power Grab' By EPA In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Effort
Attorneys general in 21 states are fighting to block Environmental Protection Agency pollution limits designed to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay, fearing the Obama administration will use that authority to regulate wetlands in their states.
The attorneys general filed an amicus brief earlier this month in support of the American Farm Bureau Federation's challenge to the cleanup plan, which aims to reduce pollutants and get the bay up to federal clean-water standards by 2025, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
The states argue that the effort is "the culmination of (the EPA's) decade-long attempt to control exactly how states achieve federal water quality requirements under the (Clean Water Act), and marks the beginning of the end of meaningful state participation in water pollution regulation."
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The attorneys general filed an amicus brief earlier this month in support of the American Farm Bureau Federation's challenge to the cleanup plan, which aims to reduce pollutants and get the bay up to federal clean-water standards by 2025, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
The states argue that the effort is "the culmination of (the EPA's) decade-long attempt to control exactly how states achieve federal water quality requirements under the (Clean Water Act), and marks the beginning of the end of meaningful state participation in water pollution regulation."
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Too Late For A Short-Term Unemployment Fix?
Nearly two months after federal unemployment benefits expired, hope for a short-term restoration of jobless aid has all but disappeared on Capitol Hill. But rather than scale back their expectations, Democrats are aiming for an even more ambitious unemployment insurance package.
Despite weeks of wrangling, Senate Democrats remain still one GOP vote short to restore the federal jobless aid that expired on Dec. 28—and face an even steeper climb in the House. Their original plan had been to pass a three-month extension, then move onto a longer-term fix. But given how much time that has already passed, the focus has now shifted to a six-month or year-long restoration of benefits, according to sources familiar with the talks.
“The Dems no longer want to talk about a three-month extension because quite frankly, by the time it ever passed, it would be one lump sum retroactive check, and we’d be fighting all over again,” says Judy Conti, federal advocacy coordinator for the National Employment Law Project, who has been lobbying Congress for an extension.
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Despite weeks of wrangling, Senate Democrats remain still one GOP vote short to restore the federal jobless aid that expired on Dec. 28—and face an even steeper climb in the House. Their original plan had been to pass a three-month extension, then move onto a longer-term fix. But given how much time that has already passed, the focus has now shifted to a six-month or year-long restoration of benefits, according to sources familiar with the talks.
“The Dems no longer want to talk about a three-month extension because quite frankly, by the time it ever passed, it would be one lump sum retroactive check, and we’d be fighting all over again,” says Judy Conti, federal advocacy coordinator for the National Employment Law Project, who has been lobbying Congress for an extension.
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TRAFFIC ALERT - Early Morning Temporary Road Closures For An Oversized Load
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Delmar -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces that temporary road closures for a short period of time beginning at 6 a.m. and ending at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 1 will be in effect to move an oversized load.
The following roadways will experience temporary road closures:
* Bi-State Boulevard
* Old Racetrack Road
Delaware State Police and DelDOT will accompany the oversized load to help alert motorists of the closure and provide intersection control along the route.
Motorists are advised to be aware of lane shifts and expect delays.
Delmar -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces that temporary road closures for a short period of time beginning at 6 a.m. and ending at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 1 will be in effect to move an oversized load.
The following roadways will experience temporary road closures:
* Bi-State Boulevard
* Old Racetrack Road
Delaware State Police and DelDOT will accompany the oversized load to help alert motorists of the closure and provide intersection control along the route.
Motorists are advised to be aware of lane shifts and expect delays.
Man Claims He Was Burned Having Relations With A Pizza, Domino’s Responds Perfectly: WARNING, Graphic
Listen, pizzas are for eating. Whatever else you do with them — and we won’t judge you but also do not necessarily want to know — you’re probably on your own, so far as injuries go. That being said, whoever runs the Domino’s UK Twitter account is more than patient than someone else might be when dealing with complaints of alleged burns incurred during pizza fornication.
In an exchange that could possibly be a joke and might definitely constitute “misuse of the pizza,” a customer who is just so darn mad that he burned his bits while he “made love” to a pizza unleashed a series of all caps tweets at Domino’s asking for advice.
He started things off asking for how to get a refund after his too-hot-to-handle encounter. We’ve taken his tweets out of all caps for easier reading (H/T to Gawker):
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In an exchange that could possibly be a joke and might definitely constitute “misuse of the pizza,” a customer who is just so darn mad that he burned his bits while he “made love” to a pizza unleashed a series of all caps tweets at Domino’s asking for advice.
He started things off asking for how to get a refund after his too-hot-to-handle encounter. We’ve taken his tweets out of all caps for easier reading (H/T to Gawker):
More
WSCO MOST WANTED 2-28-14
• White Female, 5’01” 110 lbs
• DOB 11/28/1987 26 years of age
• Brown hair, Blue eyes
• Headley’s last known address was Laurel DE
• Headley is wanted by the Sheriff's Office on a three District Court Bench Warrants issued for Failure to Appear in Drug Court in December 2013
• There is no preset bond, she must be brought before the court
• The State will extradite Headley from DE and VA
• Headley has history of DRUG ABUSE and should be APPROACHED WITH CAUTION
• White Male, 5’11” 155 lbs
• DOB 08/21/1966 47 years of age
• Brown hair, Green eyes
• Cooper’s last known addresses were Willards MD and Laurel DE
• Cooper uses the nickname Thor and has tattoos on his left arm
• Cooper is wanted by the Sheriff’s Office on a District Court Arrest Warrant issued in September 2013 for Theft under $1000 and Conspiracy Theft
• And on a District Court Bench Warrant issued for Failure to Appear in October 2013 on the charges of Violating a Protective Order, Burglary 4th, and Trespass Private
• And on a Child Support Body Attachment issued in January 2014
• The total preset bond is $5,557.50
• The state will extradite Cooper from DE and VA
CLICK READ MORE TO SEE COMPLETE LIST
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